New guide to help improve profitability in dairy calf-to-beef systems
A new Dairy Calf-to-Beef Manual, produced by the Teagasc DairyBeef500 team, has been launched at Teagasc Moorepark, by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon.
The dairy calf to beef resource contains 10 practical actions designed to support farmers engaged in dairy calf-to-beef systems.
Commenting on the launch, Minister Heydon said: "The production of this practical manual by Teagasc along with newer technologies such as the Commercial Beef Value developed by ICBF [Irish Cattle Breeding Federation] highlight the importance of the collaborative approach in helping beef farmers identify better quality genetics and drive farm output through better carcass weights.”
Manager of Teagasc DairyBeef 500 programme, Alan Dillon commented: “Dairy calf-to-beef production has experienced a good 12 months in terms of profitability following the beef price rise in 2025.
"This manual will be a useful tool for existing and new entrants to calf-to-beef production."
Advisor with the Teagasc DairyBeef 500 programme, Fergal Maguire outlined the content of the manual: “This manual brings together all the key elements required for a successful dairy calf-to-beef enterprise.
"The publication is structured into eight comprehensive sections covering essential topics such as selecting the most suitable system for your farm, calf rearing, winter nutrition, animal health, finishing cattle, and grassland management.
"Presented in a clear, easy to read format, the manual delivers practical, evidence-based guidance that will benefit both experienced producers and those new to the sector."
The Teagasc resource is designed for anyone with an interest in producing beef from the dairy herd and serves as a reference for improving efficiency, performance, and profitability.
The Dairy Calf-to-Beef Manual is available in Teagasc offices in hard copy.
